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ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025
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Strengthening Electoral Institutions for Sustainable Democracy in
Somalia
M.Sc. Ali Hussein Mohammed
Head of International Partner Coordination Upper House Federal Parliament of Somalia
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.910000526
Received: 02 November 2025; Accepted: 08 November 2025; Published: 18 November 2025
ABSTRACT
Somalia’s democratic development has been hindered by decades of conflict, political instability, and weak
governance structures. Nevertheless, the country has achieved notable milestones, including peaceful transfers
of power and the establishment of foundational electoral institutions. This report analyzes the main challenges
confronting Somalia’s electoral system, such as limited institutional capacity, political interference, insecurity,
low transparency, and the absence of a Hight Court and Constitutional Court to oversee electoral disputes. It
highlights key reforms and initiatives, including the creation of the National Independent Electoral
Commission (NIEC), constitutional and electoral law reforms, local elections in Puntland, and ongoing voter
registration campaigns in Mogadishu and Baydhaba. The study proposes strategic measures to strengthen
electoral institutions, emphasizing capacity building, legal and institutional independence, transparency, civil
society engagement, and judicial oversight. By implementing these strategies, Somalia can enhance the
credibility of elections, foster inclusive political participation, and reinforce public trust in democratic
processes. This study provides a policy-oriented roadmap for consolidating Somalia’s electoral framework and
advancing long-term political stability and democratic governance.
INTRODUCTION
Countries emerging from conflict or fragile political environments face significant challenges in building
sustainable democratic systems, yet their experiences offer valuable lessons. Some nations have successfully
rebuilt strong electoral institutions, providing models that Somalia can learn from. For instance, Rwanda
established an independent National Electoral Commission, implemented robust voter registration, and
conducted civic education campaigns to foster inclusive participation. Ghana strengthened its Electoral
Commission, ensured impartial adjudication of electoral disputes, and conducted multiple peaceful transfers of
power. Tunisia created an Independent High Authority for Elections, introduced inclusive political
representation frameworks, and promoted transparent oversight mechanisms, resulting in credible and accepted
elections.
In contrast, countries such as Afghanistan, South Sudan, and Somalia continue to struggle with weak and
fragmented electoral institutions. Afghanistan has repeatedly faced electoral crises due to insecurity, logistical
challenges, and political interference, which have undermined public confidence in the electoral process. South
Sudan’s elections have been similarly affected by ongoing conflict, limited institutional capacity, and disputes
over voter registration, resulting in repeated delays and contested outcomes.
Somalia has experienced decades of political instability, armed conflict, and fragile governance, which have
significantly affected the development of its democratic institutions. Following the collapse of the central
government in 1991, the country entered a prolonged period of state fragility, with competing clans and armed
groups controlling various regions. This historical instability, coupled with ongoing insecurity and weak
institutional capacity, has posed considerable challenges to establishing a coherent and functional electoral
system.
In recent years, Somalia has made incremental progress toward rebuilding its political institutions, including
the formation of the Federal Government in 2012 and efforts to implement constitutional and electoral
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS | Volume IX Issue X October 2025
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frameworks. Despite these advances, the country continues to face significant obstacles that compromise the
credibility, transparency, and inclusiveness of its elections.
Fragile security conditions, including threats from extremist groups, hamper voter registration, campaigning,
and election-day operations. Political tensions between the Federal Government and Federal Member States
(FMSs) often delay consensus on electoral frameworks, seat allocations, and voting procedures. Furthermore,
entrenched clan-based politics, inadequate legal frameworks, and limited technical capacity constrain the
independence and effectiveness of electoral institutions.
Electoral institutions in Somalia, particularly the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC), are
mandated to organize elections, conduct voter and political party registration, and oversee candidate vetting.
However, these institutions operate in a complex political environment where legal frameworks are often
incomplete or inconsistently applied, and the Constitutional Court intended to adjudicate electoral disputes has
not yet been established. As a result, electoral outcomes are frequently contested, and public confidence in
democratic processes remains fragile.
Despite these challenges, Somalia has made notable progress. Key laws form the foundation of the country’s
electoral system, including the Political Parties Law (2016), the Law on the Establishment of the Independent
National Electoral Commission and Boundaries, and the National Elections Law (2024). The NIEC has
undertaken several important initiatives, such as conducting voter and political party registration in
Mogadishu, establishing candidate vetting procedures, promoting civic education, and developing guidelines to
ensure transparent election administration. These measures have gradually strengthened the credibility of the
electoral process and fostered trust among citizens and political actors.
Strengthening Somalia’s electoral institutions remains critical for democratic consolidation. Priority actions
should focus on enhancing the capacity and independence of the NIEC, improving coordination with Federal
Member States to harmonize electoral procedures, ensuring security and logistical preparedness for elections,
and promoting transparency and accountability at all stages of the electoral cycle. By drawing lessons from
countries that have successfully reformed their electoral systems and adapting those solutions to Somalia’s
unique political and security context, the nation can build a more inclusive, credible, and resilient democratic
governance framework.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK
Definition of Electoral Institutions
Electoral institutions are formal organizations and mechanisms established to administer, manage, and oversee
the electoral process within a country. They are responsible for ensuring that elections are conducted in a free,
fair, transparent, and credible manner. These institutions typically manage key functions such as voter
registration, candidate nomination, political party regulation, election-day operations, vote counting, and
dispute resolution. The independence, impartiality, and capacity of electoral institutions are crucial for
sustaining democratic governance and building public trust in electoral outcomes (Norris, 2014; IDEA, 2020).
Electoral institutions vary by country but generally include bodies such as national electoral commissions,
boundaries commissions which is now Somalia Parliament combined one commission under Law on the
Establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (2024), and adjudicative courts or tribunals
tasked with handling electoral disputes. The effectiveness of these institutions depends on a robust legal
framework, adequate resources, technical capacity, and protection from political interference (Birch, 2011). In
fragile or post-conflict states like Somalia, the establishment of strong electoral institutions is particularly
important to enhance legitimacy, reduce political tensions, and support democratic consolidation.
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The Relationship Between Institutional Strength and Democratic Stability
Explanation of Flow
Legal and Regulatory Foundations in Somalia
Somalia Electoral Laws
Somalia Provisional Constitution (2012)
Political Parties Law (2016)
Law on the Establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)(2024)
National Elections Law (2024)
Other relevant legal frameworks
The legal framework governing Somalia’s electoral system forms the cornerstone for building transparent and
credible democratic institutions. Central among these is the Political Parties Law (2016), which regulates the
formation, registration, and functioning of political parties ensuring that participation in elections is based on
pluralism, accountability, and respect for national unity. This law encourages the transition from clan-based
representation to issue-based political competition, laying the groundwork for a democratic multi-party system.
Complementing this is the Law on the Establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission
(INEC), which defines the structure, powers, and independence of the national electoral body. The INEC is
mandated to organize, manage, and oversee all electoral processes in Somalia, ensuring that elections are
conducted impartially and in accordance with the law.
Furthermore, the National Elections Law provides detailed procedures for voter registration, candidate
nomination, voting, counting, and dispute resolution. It establishes clear rules and timelines to enhance
transparency and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process. Together with other relevant legal
frameworks such as the Provisional Constitution of 2012 and regulations on electoral dispute mechanisms
these laws collectively create the institutional and legal basis for strengthening electoral governance in
Somalia. Effective implementation and harmonization of these instruments are essential for consolidating
democratic gains, enhancing institutional capacity, and ensuring that future elections are free, fair, and
reflective of the will of the people.
Somalia’s Constitution
Somalia’s legal and constitutional framework has evolved significantly since independence, laying the
foundation for democratic governance and the strengthening of electoral institutions. Beginning with the 1960
Constitution, Somalia established a parliamentary democracy, multi-party system, and independent judiciary.
This was followed by the 1979 Constitution, which centralized power under a one-party socialist regime, and
the 1990 draft constitution, which sought to introduce multiparty democracy but was never adopted due to civil
war. Subsequent transitional frameworks, including the 2000 Transitional National Charter and the 2004
Transitional Federal Charter, reestablished central governance, introduced federalism, and incorporated clan-
based power-sharing formulas while recognizing Islam and fundamental rights. The 2012 Provisional
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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Constitution currently serves as the supreme law, providing a federal structure, separation of powers, and a
legal basis for elections. Complementing these constitutional provisions are key electoral laws, including the
Political Parties Law (2016), the Law on the Establishment of the Independent National Electoral Commission
(INEC), the National Elections Law, and other relevant legal instruments, which collectively form the legal
foundation for building transparent, credible, and sustainable electoral institutions in Somalia.
Year
Constitutional Framework
Authority/Legality
1960
The Constitution for Republic of Somalia
The Constitution (1960) of the Republic of Somalia was
the first national constitution adopted after independence,
and it was also approved through a public referendum in
20 June 1961.
1979
The Constitution for Democratic Republic of
Somalia
The Constitution (1979) was also adopted by a public
referendum on 25 August 1979, but the process took
place under a single-party authoritarian regime, limiting
its democratic legitimacy.
1990
Drafted Constitution by Siyad Bare Regime
There was no officially adopted Constitution in 1990 for
Somalia.
However, there was a draft constitution prepared under
President Mohamed Siad Barre’s regime, intended to
replace the 1979 Constitution but it was never
implemented due to the outbreak of civil war.
2000
Transitional National Charter
The Transitional National Charter (TNC) was a
temporary constitutional framework adopted at the Arta
Peace Conference in Djibouti. It served as Somalia’s
governing document from 2000 to 2004, marking the first
major attempt to re-establish a central government after
nearly a decade of civil war and state collapse.
2004
National Charter
Adoption by Somali delegates representing all major
clans and political factions at the Somali National
Reconciliation Conference (Nairobi, Kenya) It served as
the supreme law of Somalia during the transitional period
(2004–2012).
2012
Provisional Constitution
The 2012 Provisional Constitution remains legally valid
and operational today (2025).
A Constitutional Review Process is ongoing under both
Houses of the Federal Parliament to finalize and amend
the document before a national referendum is held.
METHODOLOGY
This study employs a qualitative descriptive research approach to examine the challenges and opportunities
for strengthening electoral institutions in Somalia and to explore their role in promoting sustainable
democracy. The qualitative method was selected because it allows for an in-depth understanding of
institutional dynamics, political processes, and governance structures that shape Somalia’s electoral system.
Data for this study were collected primarily through secondary sources, including official documents such as
the Political Parties Law (2016), the National Independent Electoral Commission Act (2024), and the National
Elections Law(2024), as well as reports, policy papers, internal procedures and publications from the National
Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and other
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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relevant national and international institutions. Scholarly articles and comparative studies from countries with
similar post-conflict electoral experiences were also reviewed to provide contextual insights.
The collected data were analyzed using thematic analysis, focusing on key themes such as institutional
capacity, legal and regulatory frameworks, political interference, transparency, inclusivity, and accountability.
Through this approach, the study identifies critical gaps within Somalia’s electoral institutions and proposes
practical strategies to enhance their effectiveness and sustainability in supporting democratic governance.
Current Challenges Facing Somalia’s Electoral Institutions
Somalia’s journey toward building credible and democratic electoral institutions continues to face a range of
complex and interrelated challenges. Despite notable progress since the re-establishment of the Federal
Government in 2012, the country’s electoral system remains fragile and heavily dependent on elite negotiation
and external support. The following are the major challenges currently facing Somalia’s electoral institutions.
Weak Institutional Capacity and Infrastructure
The National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) and other related institutions suffer from weak
institutional capacity and limited infrastructure. The NIEC faces challenges in human resource development,
technological capability, and administrative systems necessary to conduct direct elections. Its operations have
been largely dependent on donor funding and international technical assistance, which affects sustainability
and independence (Interpeace, 2021). Moreover, inadequate infrastructure such as data management systems,
offices across all Federal Member States, and secure logistics continues to hinder effective election
management. Persistent insecurity, limited transport networks, and unreliable communication systems further
complicate voter registration and outreach (UNDP, 2022).
Political Interference and Lack of Impartiality
Political interference remains a critical challenge in Somalia’s electoral landscape. The appointment of NIEC
members and other electoral bodies is often influenced by political interests, which undermines public
confidence in the impartiality of these institutions (Menkhaus, 2018). Federal and state leaders frequently
engage in political bargaining over electoral models, procedures, and timelines, leading to repeated delays and
disputes. This political manipulation erodes institutional autonomy and contributes to perceptions that electoral
processes are controlled by elites rather than guided by national democratic principles (Bryden, 2013).
Strengthening institutional independence is therefore vital for ensuring credibility and fairness in future
elections.
Security Concerns and Logistical Difficulties
Insecurity remains one of the most serious obstacles to conducting credible elections in Somalia. Al-Shabaab
and other armed groups continue to pose significant threats to electoral staff, candidates, and voters,
particularly in rural areas and regions outside government control (International Crisis Group, 2022). This
volatile security environment restricts voter registration, campaigning, and election monitoring, often forcing
the government to hold elections in limited, highly secured locations such as Mogadishu. Additionally,
logistical difficulties including inadequate transportation, limited infrastructure, and poor coordination between
federal and state-level authorities further complicate election planning and implementation (UNDP, 2022).
Limited Transparency and Accountability
Somalia’s electoral processes have been criticized for lacking transparency and accountability. The indirect
election model, where a small number of clan delegates select parliamentarians, has often been associated with
corruption, vote-buying, and lack of public trust (Interpeace, 2021). Electoral institutions face challenges in
ensuring open reporting, effective monitoring, and the publication of electoral data. Furthermore, weak
oversight mechanisms and limited civic participation have made it difficult to hold political actors accountable
for irregularities. Building transparency through open information systems, clear procedures, and citizen
engagement is essential for increasing confidence in electoral outcomes.
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Absence of a Hight Court and Constitutional Court to Adjudicate Electoral Disputes and Ensure Legal
Oversight
A major legal and institutional gap in Somalia’s democratic system is the absence of a Constitutional Court and
Hight Court. As a result, there is no independent judicial body mandated to adjudicate electoral disputes or
ensure compliance with constitutional and electoral laws. Electoral disagreements are often resolved through
political negotiation or parliamentary committees rather than through impartial legal mechanisms (Hersi,
2021). This lack of judicial oversight undermines the rule of law, weakens accountability, and limits citizens’
confidence in the fairness of the electoral process. Establishing a Constitutional Court, as envisioned in the
Provisional Constitution, would provide a legal foundation for resolving disputes and safeguarding electoral
integrity.
Strategies for Strengthening Electoral Institutions in Somalia
Strengthening Somalia’s electoral institutions is a vital step toward consolidating democracy, ensuring
political stability, and restoring public trust in governance. Effective electoral institutions require not only
strong legal foundations but also the capacity, transparency, and independence necessary to manage credible
elections across the country.
One of the most important strategies is to build the capacity of electoral staff through continuous professional
training and institutional development. Improving technical skills, administrative efficiency, and the use of
modern technology will enhance the credibility and transparency of future elections. Investing in infrastructure
and data management systems is equally essential to ensure that the National Independent Electoral
Commission (NIEC) can effectively conduct nationwide voter registration and election monitoring (UNDP,
2022).
Equally, enhancing transparency and accountability is fundamental to restoring citizens’ confidence in the
electoral process. This can be achieved by publishing clear procedures, providing open access to electoral
information, and ensuring independent audits of electoral activities. Active involvement of the media and civil
society organizations in monitoring and civic education campaigns can help prevent corruption and promote
greater public participation (Interpeace, 2021).
Legal and institutional reforms are also necessary to safeguard the autonomy of the NIEC and ensure fair and
consistent electoral administration. Finalizing the electoral law and harmonizing it with the federal constitution
will clarify institutional roles, protect commissioners from political pressure, and create a more predictable and
trusted electoral framework (Menkhaus, 2018).
Furthermore, closer engagement with civil society and international partners can contribute to strengthening
democratic values and inclusivity. Collaboration with local organizations, community leaders, and international
actors supports voter awareness, gender participation, and peaceful dialogue key components of a stable
democratic environment (Hersi, 2021).
Finally, establishing a Constitutional Court remains crucial for ensuring justice and legal oversight in electoral
matters. Such a court would provide an impartial mechanism for resolving electoral disputes, interpreting
electoral laws, and safeguarding constitutional rights.
Its creation would mark a significant step toward strengthening the rule of law and deepening Somalia’s
democratic governance (International Crisis Group, 2022).
Key Initiatives and Reforms in Somalia
Somalia has embarked on a significant journey toward democratic governance, marked by key initiatives and
reforms aimed at strengthening its electoral institutions. These reforms reflect the country’s determination to
build credible, inclusive, and sustainable democratic systems despite ongoing security and institutional
challenges.
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One of the most significant reforms has been the establishment of the National Independent Electoral
Commission (NIEC) in 2015, which was tasked with managing elections and transitioning Somalia from an
indirect, clan-based system toward a direct, one-person-one-vote model (UNDP, 2022). With technical and
financial support from international partners, the NIEC has made progress in drafting electoral laws,
developing voter registration systems, and conducting civic education campaigns.
The Provisional Constitution Review Process has also been central to Somalia’s reform agenda. Parliament,
together with the Ministry of Constitutional Affairs and other stakeholders, has focused on finalizing the
remaining chapters of the constitution, particularly those related to electoral systems, federalism, and the
establishment of a Constitutional Court (Hersi, 2021). Complementing this effort, the Electoral Law of 2020
provides a framework for organizing direct elections and defining the roles of federal and state-level
institutions, even though full implementation has been delayed (Interpeace, 2021).
Somalia has also witnessed important local-level initiatives, particularly in Puntland, where political parties
have united to complete local council elections by August 2024. This collaborative effort reflects a
commitment to democratic principles and broader political participation, ensuring more inclusive and
representative local governance (Garowe Online, 2024).
In addition, voter registration campaigns are currently ongoing in major cities, including Mogadishu and
Baydhaba. In Mogadishu, the NIEC reopened voter registration centers in September 2025 under a new
electoral framework, enabling citizens to register in preparation for the next national elections (Hiiraan, 2025).
In Baydhaba, the President of South West State officially launched the voter registration campaign in July
2025, marking an important step toward direct elections in the federal member state (Radio Dalsan, 2025).
Beyond electoral reforms, the government has introduced public financial management reforms, anti-
corruption measures, and civil service modernization programs to enhance transparency, accountability, and
institutional efficiency (Bryden, 2013). International partnerships with the United Nations, African Union,
European Union, and IGAD continue to provide technical support and capacity-building initiatives that
reinforce Somalia’s democratic progress (International Crisis Group, 2022).
Collectively, these initiatives ranging from institutional reforms and local elections to voter registration
campaigns demonstrate Somalia’s commitment to building a more accountable, inclusive, and democratic
political system. While challenges remain, the ongoing efforts reflect tangible progress in strengthening
electoral institutions and fostering citizen participation across the country.
Despite the Weaknesses of Electoral Institutions, Somalia Has Achieved Peaceful Transfers of Power
Since the 1991 Government Collapse.
Despite the persistent weaknesses of Somalia’s electoral institutions, the country has made remarkable
progress in achieving peaceful transfers of power since the collapse of the central government in 1991.
Following decades of civil war and institutional disintegration, Somalia began rebuilding its governance
structures through transitional arrangements supported by regional and international partners. Although
political fragility, corruption, and clan-based divisions continue to pose challenges, the country has shown
resilience by facilitating leadership transitions through dialogue and negotiated political processes rather than
violence (Menkhaus, 2018).
Since the establishment of the Transitional National Government (TNG) in 2000 and the subsequent formation
of the Transitional Federal Government (TFG) in 2004, Somalia has taken gradual steps toward a federal
system of governance. The creation of the Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) in 2012 marked a historic
milestone, as it represented the first internationally recognized government in more than two decades (Hersi,
2021).
Subsequent presidential elections in 2012, 2017, and 2022 were all conducted through indirect elections or
voting mechanisms involving clan representatives and members of the Federal Parliament. Despite their
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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limitations, each of these processes concluded with a peaceful transfer of power an exceptional achievement in
a post-conflict environment (Bryden, 2013; International Crisis Group, 2022).
The 2012 transition from the Transitional Federal Government to the Federal Government of Somalia, the
2017 peaceful handover from President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo,
and the 2022 return of power to Hassan Sheikh Mohamud demonstrated growing political maturity among
Somali leaders. These transitions reinforced the principle that leadership changes can occur without violence,
strengthening public trust in dialogue and compromise as viable tools for political stability (UNDP, 2022).
Although Somalia’s electoral institutions remain weak characterized by limited institutional capacity,
dependence on political elites, and an absence of universal suffrage they have nonetheless provided a platform
for stability and continuity.
The gradual institutionalization of the National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC), the ongoing
constitutional review process, and the continued commitment of both Houses of Parliament to develop a direct
electoral system are indicators of progress toward democratic consolidation (Interpeace, 2021).
STRONG RECOMMENDATIONS
To achieve credible and sustainable elections, Somalia must prioritize long-term institutional reforms and
genuine political commitment. The government, in collaboration with Parliament, should focus on
strengthening the independence and operational capacity of the National Independent Electoral Commission
(NIEC). This requires adequate funding, professional staffing, and protection from political interference.
A clear and harmonized legal framework should be finalized to define the relationship between the federal and
state-level electoral bodies. The establishment of a Constitutional Court should be expedited to provide legal
oversight and adjudicate electoral disputes impartially. Strengthening judicial independence is critical to
ensuring that electoral outcomes are respected and legally grounded.
Moreover, enhancing transparency and accountability through open data systems, civic education, and public
communication is vital to restore citizens’ trust in the process. Civil society and the media should be
empowered to play an active monitoring role, ensuring that elections are free from corruption and
manipulation. International partners should continue providing technical assistance and financial support but in
a way that builds national ownership and institutional sustainability.
Finally, political leaders must demonstrate genuine commitment to democratic values by respecting term
limits, embracing inclusivity, and prioritizing peaceful dialogue over political confrontation. Such leadership
will be instrumental in consolidating the gains made in Somalia’s democratic transition.
CONCLUSION
Somalia’s progress toward building a stable and democratic state has been remarkable despite decades of
conflict and institutional fragility. While the country’s electoral institutions continue to face challenges such as
limited capacity, political interference, and lack of judicial oversight, the peaceful transfers of power witnessed
since 2012 show a growing political maturity and national resilience.
Strengthening these institutions is not merely a technical exercise but a foundation for lasting peace and
democratic governance. Through sustained capacity building, transparent systems, legal reforms, and the
establishment of an independent Constitutional Court, Somalia can transform its electoral framework into one
that truly reflects the will of its people.
Ultimately, the success of electoral reform depends on national ownership, cooperation between federal and
state authorities, and a collective commitment to uphold democratic principles. If implemented effectively,
these reforms will not only ensure credible elections but also reinforce public trust, political stability, and
Somalia’s long-term path toward sustainable democracy.
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